The London neighbourhood of Chiswick may be known for displaying many British middle-class features: Fairtrade coffee cafes, vegetarian restaurants and plenty of families with large prams taking up the entire pavement. What may surprise visitors is the neo-Palladian villa of Chiswick House. Visitors may think they have stumbled into the tranquil Italian countryside (until the heavy English rain makes them realise they are still in London).
The house itself is impressive. It's cared for by English Heritage and an army of passionate volunteers and caretakers. Fans of Palladio will adore wandering the home both inside and out. Entry into the house is closed until spring of 2017, but the gardens are open all-day everyday and are free of charge.
It is in the gardens themselves where you'll see many Chiswick residents going about their daily business - jogging around the greenery, walking their dogs and sharing tea and cakes in the Chiswick House cafe. Taking the classic architecture in stride shows how readily the residents have adopted this seemingly out-of-place Italian villa into their daily London lives.
Find your way with 242 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
KöD brings a Scandinavian touch to London’s steak scene. Tucked in a quiet courtyard near Liverpool Street, it serves tasty steaks with a Nordic charm.
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A hidden little café, Store Street Espresso serves standout hot coffee, pastries, and beans from top roasters. Take them outside to nearby green spaces!
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Grasso in Soho fuses Sicilian flavors with NYC diner vibes. Enjoy their unforgettable mozzarella sticks with nduja & honey, chicken parm, and lamb ragu.
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Sunny day in London? Brunch at Hampstead’s Ginger & White, stroll High St shops, grab ice cream, then relax on the Heath. Get ready for a perfect outing!
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"London Fields Lido" is for those rare days when it's actually hot and sunny. Beat the crowds, head over to this colourful pool and meet me there!
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Bun House in London may go viral for custard buns, but their chili green beans and prawn dumplings steal the show. Worth the queues!
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At Tokyo Diner, queues prove its charm: authentic Japanese flavors, standout Chicken Katsu Don, bilingual staff, and no tipping — truly unforgettable!
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Zephyr is a 10/10 dining gem with fresh seafood, flawless flavors, and an atmosphere that truly blows you away. Ready for the best tarama in the city?
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Wagtail by Monument offers rooftop dining with cocktails, excellent food and flexible seating. Come for the award-winning drinks, and friendly service.
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Hidden in a Notting Hill alley, this Korean gem serves killer kimchi pancakes, sizzling main dishes and good vibes worth every penny.
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Ta’mini brings Beirut flavors to Russell Square. They serve the best cheesy ka’ak, mana’ish, fresh juices and homemade ayran. A real treasure in London!
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242 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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